49 Know How To Be A Good Dog Owner: To-Dos, Not To-Dos

1. Responsibilities of a Thoughtful Dog Owner

Understanding Commitment: Recognize the Long-Term Commitment: Dogs can live up to 17 years, depending on the breed. It’s crucial to understand the longevity of the commitment before bringing a dog into your life.

Time Management: Allocate Sufficient Time: Ensure that you can dedicate ample time to care for your dog’s needs, including exercise, grooming, training, and companionship.

Compliance with Regulations: Follow Local Laws and Ordinances: Adhere to local regulations by ensuring your dog is vaccinated, registered, and microchipped as required by law. This not only promotes responsible ownership but also ensures the safety and well-being of your dog and the community.

Training and Education: Invest in Training and Education: Dedicate time to train your dog and instill good manners and essential commands. Proper training not only enhances the bond between you and your dog but also promotes safety and obedience in various situations.

2. Essential Training Commands

Sit Command: Teach your dog to sit on command. This fundamental cue not only demonstrates obedience but also helps in managing your dog’s behavior in various situations.

Come Command: Train your dog to come when called. This command is essential for recall and is crucial for maintaining control over your dog, especially in public settings or emergency situations.

Stay Command: Teach your dog to stay in place until released. This command promotes impulse control and safety, preventing your dog from wandering off or getting into potentially dangerous situations.

3. Importance of Training

Public Etiquette: Ensure Well-Behaved Behavior: Training your dog in basic commands like sit, come, and stay is essential for promoting good behavior in public settings. It enables you to manage your dog effectively and ensures a positive experience for both your dog and others around you.

Safety and Control: Enhance Safety and Control: By training your dog to respond to commands, you can effectively manage their behavior and prevent potentially hazardous situations. This level of control is crucial for ensuring your dog’s safety and the safety of others in various environments.

4. Importance of Vaccinations

Preventing Disease Spread: Ensure Regular Vaccinations: Keeping your dog updated with vaccinations is crucial for preventing the spread of diseases and protecting both your dog and others in the community from potential health risks.

Rabies Vaccination: Prioritize Rabies Vaccination: Rabies vaccination is particularly important as rabies can be transmitted to humans and is life-threatening. By keeping your dog’s rabies vaccination up-to-date, you contribute to public health and safety.

5. Parasite Prevention and Control

Internal Parasites: Address Internal Parasites: Puppies are often born with roundworms, and there are various internal parasites, such as tapeworms, that they can catch. Regular deworming of puppies and adult dogs is essential for their well-being and prevents the risk of human infection.

Public Health Concerns: Minimize Health Risks: Dog feces containing worms pose a risk of human infection. To protect public health, it’s crucial to regularly worm your dogs and promptly clean up after them, especially in public areas frequented by children.

6. Importance of Flea Protection

Preventing Tapeworms: Effective Flea Protection: Fleas can carry tapeworms, posing a risk to your pet’s health. Ensuring your pets have effective flea protection is essential for preventing flea infestations and reducing the risk of tapeworm transmission.

Health and Well-being: Promote Pet Health: Providing your pets with flea protection not only safeguards their health but also contributes to their overall well-being and comfort. It helps prevent discomfort and potential health issues associated with flea infestations.

7. Responsible Dog Ownership

Health Maintenance: Prioritize Preventative Care: As a responsible dog owner, it’s your duty to prioritize your dog’s health by ensuring they receive regular vaccinations, deworming, and flea protection. These measures not only protect your dog but also contribute to public health and safety.

Community Consideration: Respect Public Spaces: Cleaning up after your dog and minimizing the risk of disease transmission through proper parasite control demonstrate consideration for the health and well-being of your community. Responsible dog ownership entails taking proactive steps to mitigate potential health hazards associated with pet ownership.

10. Financial Preparedness and Pet Insurance

Financial Planning: Budget for Expenses: Responsible dog ownership entails planning for various expenses, including food, kennel fees during vacations, vaccinations, and potential veterinary costs in case of illness. Owners should be prepared for unexpected expenses and consider the financial implications of pet ownership.

Pet Insurance: Consider Pet Insurance: Like children, dogs can fall ill unexpectedly. Owners can mitigate the financial burden of unexpected veterinary expenses by investing in pet insurance. This provides peace of mind and ensures that dogs can receive necessary medical care without causing financial strain.

11. Exercise and Daily Care

Daily Exercise Needs: Provide Adequate Exercise: Dogs require daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. This involves more than just a leisurely walk around the block; dogs need opportunities for vigorous physical activity, such as running in a field or playing fetch with a ball. Owners should be willing to dedicate time each day to meet their dog’s exercise needs.

Commitment to Daily Exercise: Sacrifice Leisure Time: Loving your dog means being willing to sacrifice some of your leisure time to ensure their well-being. Regardless of the weather, owners should prioritize daily exercise for their dogs, as it is essential for their physical and mental health.

Consider Older Dogs: Provide Suitable Exercise: If unable to provide vigorous exercise, consider adopting an older dog from a local shelter. Older dogs may have lower exercise requirements and can be a great match for owners with limited time or mobility.

12. Choosing the Right Pet for Children

Caution When Choosing a Pet for Children: Consider Children’s Age and Responsibility: While dogs and children often form strong bonds, it’s essential to choose a pet that is suitable for the child’s age and level of responsibility. Young children may inadvertently harm or mishandle a young puppy, leading to potential injuries or trauma.

Wait for Appropriate Age: Delay Getting a Puppy: Owners should wait until children are older and more responsible before introducing a young puppy into the household. This reduces the risk of accidents or mistreatment and ensures a safer and more positive experience for both the child and the dog.

13. Selecting a Dog Breed

Consider Coat Maintenance: Opt for Low-Maintenance Coats: If you have limited time for grooming, choose a dog with an easy or wire coat that requires minimal attention to keep it tidy. Breeds with long or curly coats may look beautiful but often require daily grooming to maintain their appearance. Poodles, for example, need regular trimming and grooming, which can incur additional expenses if done professionally.

14. Registration and Identification

Register Your Dog: Ensure Registration: Registering your dog is crucial in case they ever get lost. It facilitates a quicker and easier process of reuniting them with you. In some countries, like the UK, microchipping is mandatory, while others may require a license. Additionally, always update your contact information if you change addresses, and ensure your dog wears a collar with an ID tag when outdoors.

15. Veterinary Care

Establish a Veterinary Practice: Prioritize Your Dog’s Health: Your dog’s health is paramount, so it’s essential to have them registered with a reputable veterinary practice. They should receive regular health checks, dental care, and vaccinations as needed. Discuss with your vet about important decisions, such as spaying/neutering, and address any health concerns promptly. Regular veterinary care ensures your dog’s well-being and longevity.

16. Nutrition and Health

Provide a Balanced Diet: Ensure Proper Nutrition: A balanced diet is essential to keep your dog strong and healthy, reducing the risk of illnesses like obesity and diabetes. Avoid feeding them unsuitable foods or excessive amounts, and consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate diet for your dog’s breed, size, and age.

17. Socialization and Training

Socialize Your Dog: Start Early Socialization: Socializing your dog from the beginning is crucial for their overall well-being. Expose them to different dogs, people, and environments to help them become comfortable in various situations. Proper socialization can prevent behavioral issues and ensure your dog is confident and relaxed outside their home environment.

18. Grooming and Coat Care

Regular Grooming: Groom According to Coat Type: Regular grooming is essential to maintain your dog’s coat health. The frequency of grooming depends on your dog’s coat type; long or double-coated dogs may require daily grooming, while others may need it a few times a week. During shedding seasons, daily grooming is necessary to remove dead hair, prevent matting, and minimize shedding around your home.

19. Exercise and Mental Stimulation

Provide Daily Exercise: Regular Exercise Routine: Establish a daily exercise routine for your dog, tailored to their breed, size, and age. Walking your dog not only benefits their physical health but also provides mental stimulation, prevents boredom, and reduces the likelihood of destructive behavior when they are left alone.

Clean Up After Your Dog: Practice Responsible Waste Management: Always clean up after your dog when they are eliminated, whether in your yard or out on a walk. This not only maintains cleanliness but also prevents the spread of infections to other animals and humans.

20. Preparation and Financial Considerations

Be Prepared: Ensure You Have Necessary Supplies: Before bringing a dog into your home, ensure you have all the necessary supplies, including leashes, collars, harnesses, bowls, beds, and toys. Being prepared with the essentials will help ensure your dog’s comfort and well-being from day one.

Consider Financial Responsibilities: Assess Financial Ability: Owning a dog comes with financial responsibilities for their food, healthcare, grooming, and other needs. Before committing to a dog, assess whether you can afford the ongoing expenses associated with pet ownership for potentially up to 15 years or more.

21. Training and Relationship Building

Prioritize Training: Establish Routine and Structure: Implementing training sessions and incorporating structure into your dog’s routine is crucial for their well-being. A structured routine helps create a happier, healthier dog that understands what is expected of them.

Form a Strong Bond: Spending time training together strengthens the bond between you and your dog, fostering a positive relationship. A well-trained and balanced dog is less likely to develop behavioral issues in the future.

Playtime and Bonding: Make Time for Play: Regular play sessions are essential for bonding with your dog and providing mental stimulation. Playing together is enjoyable for both you and your dog and helps alleviate the stresses of daily life.

Prevent Mischief: A tired dog is less likely to engage in destructive behavior, so ensuring they have ample playtime can help keep them content and well-behaved.

Ensure Control: It’s important to keep your dog under control at all times to prevent any incidents that could harm others. Proper training and management help ensure that your dog behaves appropriately in various situations.

Prevent Nuisance Behavior: Take measures to prevent your dog from disturbing garbage cans or engaging in behaviors that could create mess or pose a hazard to public health and safety.

22. Responsible Behavior

Considerate Barking Management: Respect Others’ Sleep: It’s important to address excessive barking behavior in your dog, especially at night, as it can disturb others’ sleep. Implement training techniques to curb nighttime barking and ensure everyone gets a restful night’s sleep.

Spaying/Neutering: Preventative Measures: Spaying or neutering your dog not only helps prevent the spread of disease and contributes to controlling the dog overpopulation issue but also promotes their overall health and loyalty.

23. Walk Etiquette

Leash Control: Optimal Leash Length: Use a leash that provides enough control without allowing your dog to get tangled or caught up in objects. Keeping your dog close to you on the leash enhances control and ensures their safety during walks.

Pooper Scooper Laws: Responsible Waste Management: Many municipalities enforce pooper scooper laws requiring dog owners to clean up after their pets in public areas. Always carry extra poop bags when taking your dog out to ensure you can fulfill this responsibility and maintain cleanliness.

24. Public Outings

Canine Park Etiquette: When visiting a dog park, ensure your dog enters calmly and is trained to remain composed instead of running up to other dogs immediately.

Supervision: Never leave your dog unattended in a dog park. Stay close and monitor their interactions to intervene if necessary, especially in the event of any confrontations.

Pet-Friendly Establishments: Before bringing your dog to pet-friendly places, research the establishment’s policies and ensure your pet remains well-behaved. Be mindful of store inventory and prevent your dog from causing any damage to products.

Respectful Ownership: Owning a dog involves more than just leaving them in the yard. Prevent becoming an annoyance to your neighbors by ensuring your dog doesn’t bark excessively, jump over fences, or roam freely around the neighborhood.

31. Prioritize Potty Breaks: Maintain Cleanliness and Consideration

Ensuring Proper Bathroom Etiquette for Your Dog

Potty Protocol: Before venturing into public spaces, always ensure that your dog relieves themselves in designated areas such as a garden or grassy patch. Promptly clean up any waste afterward to maintain cleanliness and show consideration for others.

Respect Public Areas: Prevent your dog from marking their territory in public locations, as this can lead to unsanitary conditions and potential conflicts with other dogs and individuals. In the event of accidents, promptly address the situation by cleaning up after your dog to uphold cleanliness standards.

32. Manage Barking Behavior: Foster Peace and Quiet

Promoting Considerate Behavior to Minimize Disturbances

Address Barking Promptly: While dogs may use barking as a form of communication, excessive barking can be disruptive and bothersome to others. Take proactive measures to train your dog to cease barking promptly upon command, ensuring a peaceful environment for all.

Handle Disruptions Appropriately: If your dog persists in barking despite your efforts to address the behavior, consider leaving the premises to prevent further disturbances. This demonstrates respect for others and promotes a harmonious atmosphere in public settings.

38. Treats and Chew

Sensory Appeal: A powerful scent of treats can quickly capture your dog’s attention, making it easier to effectively communicate and provide instructions. By leveraging the sensory appeal of treats, you can engage your dog’s focus and encourage attentive behavior.

Attentional Priming: When dogs are already attuned to the enticing aroma of treats, they are more receptive to receiving commands and responding to cues. Using treats as a motivational tool primes your dog for learning and reinforces desired behaviors.

39. Prepare Your Dog’s Favorite Chew

Occupational Engagement: Keeping your dog occupied with their favorite chew provides a constructive outlet for their energy and helps alleviate boredom, especially during periods when they need to remain stationary, such as waiting for you. Offering a chew engages your dog’s mind and prevents restlessness.

Promoting Calmness: Chewing on a favorite treat or toy can have a calming effect on dogs, helping them relax and remain composed in situations that require patience and restraint. By providing a familiar and enjoyable activity, you can effectively manage your dog’s behavior and promote a positive owner-dog relationship.

1. Selecting the Fallacious Dog (Or Getting a Canine Earlier than You Are Prepared)

Before welcoming a furry companion into your life, it’s crucial to consider various factors to ensure that you’re ready to provide them with a loving and supportive home. Here are some essential considerations:

Time Commitment: Assess whether you have the necessary time for dog training, exercise, bonding, and other essential activities to ensure your dog’s well-being and happiness.

Responsibilities: Reflect on whether you’re prepared to handle shedding, messes, illnesses, behavior issues, and the financial responsibilities associated with dog ownership.

Financial Preparedness: Evaluate whether you can afford the costs associated with dog ownership, including veterinary care, food, grooming, and other essentials.

Living Space Suitability: Consider whether the dog’s size and energy level are appropriate for your living space to ensure they have enough room to thrive.

Existing Pet Dynamics: If you already have pets, consider whether they’ll tolerate the addition of a new dog and how the new dynamic will impact their lives.

2. Dismissing Coaching and Socialization

Training and socialization are fundamental aspects of responsible dog ownership, essential for fostering a well-adjusted and well-behaved canine companion. Here’s why they’re crucial:

Training Benefits: View training not as a chore but as an opportunity to bond with your dog while instilling important skills and boundaries. Proper training provides structure and guidance, ensuring your dog understands the rules and expectations within your household.

Socialization Necessity: Socialization exposes your dog to various stimuli, including people, animals, environments, and situations, helping them develop confidence and adaptability. Without proper socialization, dogs may develop fears and phobias, leading to behavior problems.

Continual Process: Socialization isn’t limited to puppies; adult dogs also benefit from ongoing exposure to new experiences and environments. Regular socialization efforts enable your dog to feel comfortable and confident in various settings, enhancing their quality of life.

Public Etiquette: A well-trained and socialized dog is more likely to be welcomed in public spaces, such as parks and outdoor dining areas. Their good behavior reflects positively on you as an owner and increases the likelihood of being invited to social events with your furry companion.

3. Not Providing Sufficient Training and Exercise

Training and exercise are essential components of responsible dog ownership, contributing to your pet’s physical health and mental well-being. Here’s why adequate training and exercise are crucial:

Physical Health: Regular exercise is vital for maintaining your dog’s physical health and preventing obesity-related issues. Assess your dog’s activity level and ensure they receive enough exercise to stay fit and healthy.

Behavioral Needs: Many dogs exhibit behavioral problems when they don’t receive sufficient exercise or mental stimulation. Signs of pent-up energy include restlessness, hyperactivity, and destructive behaviors. Providing varied activities and engaging games can help fulfill your dog’s need for mental stimulation.

Diverse Activities: Consider incorporating different types of exercise and games into your dog’s routine to keep them engaged and entertained. Dog sports, such as agility or nose work, can provide both physical and mental challenges for your pet.

4. Avoiding the Veterinarian

Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for maintaining your dog’s health and well-being. Here’s why you shouldn’t skip or delay routine vet visits:

Early Detection: Routine wellness exams allow veterinarians to detect and address potential health issues before they escalate into serious problems. Early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes and prevent unnecessary suffering for your pet.

Establishing Relationships: Building a strong relationship with your veterinarian fosters trust and communication, making it easier to address any health concerns that arise. Regular visits also help acclimate your dog to the veterinary environment, reducing stress during future visits.

Preventative Measures: In addition to wellness exams, veterinarians provide valuable guidance on preventative care, such as vaccinations, parasite prevention, and dental care. Following your vet’s recommendations can help safeguard your dog’s health and longevity.

Prompt Attention: If your dog displays any signs of illness or discomfort, don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian for advice. Prompt attention to health issues can prevent them from worsening and improve your dog’s quality of life.

5. Skipping Heartworm Prevention

Heartworm prevention is a crucial aspect of responsible dog ownership, as heartworm disease can have serious and potentially fatal consequences for your pet. Here’s why skipping heartworm prevention is not advisable:

Disease Severity: Heartworm disease is caused by the parasite Dirofilaria immitis and is transmitted through mosquito bites. It can affect dogs of any age and breed and is prevalent in all 50 states. The disease can be difficult and expensive to treat, with treatment costs ranging from $1,000 to $1,500, and there is a risk of reinfection.

Affordable Prevention: Monthly heartworm prevention is relatively affordable, with costs ranging from $35 to $250 per year, depending on the size of the dog and the chosen prevention method. Compared to the potential costs and risks associated with heartworm treatment, prevention is a more cost-effective option.

Veterinary Recommendation: Veterinarians strongly recommend year-round heartworm prevention for all dogs, as it is the most effective way to protect against the disease. While some may view prevention as an unnecessary expense, the potential consequences of untreated heartworm disease far outweigh the cost of prevention.

6. Neglecting Dental Health

Dental health is often overlooked in dogs, but it is a critical aspect of overall wellness. Neglecting dental care can lead to dental disease, tooth loss, and even systemic health issues. Here’s why you should prioritize your dog’s dental health:

Signs of Dental Disease: “Doggie breath” is not normal and can indicate underlying dental issues such as tartar buildup or periodontal disease. Left untreated, dental disease can progress and lead to serious health problems.

Home Dental Care: Establishing a regular dental care routine at home is essential for maintaining your dog’s oral health. While daily tooth brushing is ideal, it may not be feasible for every pet owner. Alternative home care options include dental chews, water additives, and dental diets. Consult with your vet to determine the best approach for your dog.

Professional Dental Cleanings: Regular veterinary dental cleanings are necessary to remove plaque and tartar buildup that cannot be addressed through home care alone. Even with diligent home care, most dogs will require periodic professional cleanings to maintain optimal oral health.

Prevention is Key: Prioritizing dental health and investing in preventative measures can help prevent the development of dental disease and reduce the need for costly and invasive dental procedures in the future. By incorporating regular dental care into your dog’s routine, you can help ensure they enjoy a lifetime of good oral health.

7. Feeding Improperly

Feeding your dog a proper diet is essential for their overall health and well-being. Here are some key points to consider when it comes to feeding your canine companion:

Ingredients Matter: Not all dog foods are created equal. When choosing dog food, carefully examine the labels and consider the ingredients. Look for high-quality, nutritious ingredients and avoid fillers and by-products. Your dog’s diet plays a significant role in their health, and improper feeding can lead to various issues, including skin problems and malnutrition.

Portion Control: Overfeeding can contribute to obesity, a growing problem among dogs. Be mindful of portion sizes and avoid using food as a form of affection. Consult with your vet to determine the appropriate amount of food for your dog based on their age, size, and activity level.

Selecting Treats: Treats should be chosen carefully and fed in moderation. Some dog chews can pose a choking hazard or cause digestive issues, while certain human foods can be toxic to dogs. Choose treats that are safe and nutritious, and limit them to no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake.

8. Failing to Budget for Canine Expenses

Owning a dog comes with various expenses, and it’s essential to budget accordingly to ensure that you can provide for your pet’s needs. Here are some key considerations when budgeting for canine expenses:

Routine Costs: Factor in the cost of routine expenses such as food, grooming supplies, and preventive healthcare (e.g., vaccinations, flea and tick prevention). These costs are recurring and should be included in your monthly or annual budget.

Unexpected Expenses: Be prepared for unexpected expenses such as emergency veterinary care or unexpected illnesses or injuries. Emergency vet visits can be costly, so it’s essential to have funds set aside or a plan in place to cover these expenses if they arise.

Training and Other Services: Consider the cost of additional services such as obedience training, dog walking, or pet sitting. These services may be necessary depending on your dog’s needs and your lifestyle.

Savings and Emergency Funds: It’s a good idea to have a savings account or emergency fund specifically designated for your pet’s expenses. This fund can help cover unexpected costs and provide peace of mind knowing that you can afford necessary care for your dog.

9. Letting Habits Issues Get out of Management

Behavior issues in dogs can start small but often escalate if left unchecked. Ignoring these issues can lead to the reinforcement of undesirable behaviors and can exacerbate fear and phobias in dogs. Here are some key points to consider when addressing behavior issues in dogs:

Early Intervention: Don’t ignore behavior problems in your dog, as they are likely to worsen over time if not addressed promptly. Be proactive in identifying and managing any behavioral issues as soon as they arise.

Avoid Reinforcement: Be mindful of unintentionally reinforcing undesirable behaviors in your dog. For example, giving a treat to an aggressive dog may reinforce the aggression, while comforting a fearful dog may reinforce the fear. Instead, focus on redirecting and rewarding positive behaviors.

Seek Professional Help: If behavior issues escalate or if you’re unsure how to address them effectively, seek professional assistance from a qualified dog trainer or behaviorist. They can provide guidance and personalized training plans to address your dog’s specific needs.

10. Risking a Lost Dog

Losing a dog can be a devastating experience, but there are steps you can take to minimize the risk and increase the chances of being reunited with your pet. Here are some important considerations:

Identification: Ensure that your dog wears a collar with current identification tags at all times. Include your contact information, including your phone number and address. Additionally, consider microchipping your dog as a permanent form of identification. Dog accessories on Amazon

Supervision: Always supervise your dog when outdoors, especially in unfamiliar or unsecured areas. Use a leash or secure fencing to prevent your dog from wandering off or getting lost.

Lost Dog Protocol: Familiarize yourself with the steps to take if your dog goes missing. This may include contacting local animal shelters, posting flyers in the neighborhood, and utilizing online resources and social media platforms to spread the word about your lost pet.

By taking proactive measures to prevent your dog from getting lost and ensuring that they are properly identified, you can reduce the risk of a lost dog incident and increase the likelihood of a safe reunion if your pet does go missing.